OGSG TO UPGRADE INFRASTRUCTURE TO BOOST INDUSTRIAL GROWTH
Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, says his administration will continue work towards upgrading all infrastructure, so as to create a conducive environment for industrial growth in the state.
The Governor, revealed this at the 39th Annual General Meeting of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), Ogun State Branch, at Park Inn Hotel, Abeokuta, emphasising government's focus on improving access roads and digitising regulatory processes to create a business-friendly environment.
Abiodun, while outlining significant initiatives aimed at enhancing the ease of doing business and promoting economic activities, assured that government would intensify efforts to retain the state’s position as the industrial capital of Nigeria.
Represented by the Commissioner for Industry, Trade and Investment, Mr. Adebola Sofela, the state helmsman stressed that the ongoing construction of Abeokuta-Ota Expressway and Atan-Agbara-Lusada roads would be completed soon, disclosing that a committee had been set up to work on tax harmonisation, while the state House of Assembly had passed the Power Sector Reform Bill, towards addressing the power challenge.
He also highlighted the importance of partnership between the public and private sectors in driving industrialisation, job creation, Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and encouraging a culture of innovation, noting that the effective collaboration with strategic partners had brought about peace and tranquility being witnessed in the state.
The Governor, applauded MAN’s resilience, innovation and dedication for positioning Ogun as the apex in industrial development, promising to address the challenges facing the manufacturing sector, such as energy costs and supply chain disruptions, as well as state government continued collaboration with the association and other stakeholders to promote our common goals.
“We know your pains in the face of the current situation in the country but we will make sure they are properly addressed. It is only when the local businesses are flourishing that there can be a boom for foreign investors’', he said.
In her goodwill message, Special Adviser and Deputy Director-General of Ogun State’s Investment Promotion and Facilitation Agency (OgunInvest), Ms. Sola Arobieke, assured manufacturers that the agency would be committed to streamlining support processes for businesses in the state, as it serves as a dependable one-stop shop where manufacturers can rely on assistance with permits, addressing complaints, navigating other regulatory requirements essential for their operations at no cost, saying, “We are ready to support and simplify the regulatory journey so that you can focus on growth and innovation’’.
In his keynote address, President, MAN, Otunba Francis Meshioye commended the state government for creating a supportive environment for manufacturing growth, and its continued efforts in tackling industry challenges.
He highlighted key issues such as high cost of fuel, foreign exchange constraints, and power supply inconsistencies, encouraging the state to boost demand for locally-made products and emphasising the importance of public-private partnerships in driving Ogun’s industrial growth, calling on the state government to domesticate the President Bola Tinubu Executive Order, that makes it mandatory for everyone to patronise locally made goods in Nigeria.
Earlier in his address, Chairman, MAN, Ogun State Branch, Mr. George Onafowokan, expressed delight over the present administration’s support for industrial sector, commending the synergy between the association and Ministries of Environment, as well as Industry, Trade and Investment, noting that their support had kept many factories operational and strengthened the manufacturing sector in the state.
Sesan Sodunke & Femi Onasanya,
Press Officers, OgunInvest & Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment.
YOUR WELFARE IS SACROSANCT, HOS ASSURES WORKERS
The welfare of Ogun State Civil Servants is central to the growth and development of the Public Service, as government remains steadfast to work closely with the Labour Unions and their affiliates to create an enabling environment for the well-being of the workforce.
The state Head of Service, Mr. Kehinde Onasanya, gave the assurance, while declaring open the 5th State Branch Quadrennial Delegates’ Conference of the Association of Senior Civil Servants of Nigeria (ASCSN), Ogun State Branch, at the Ogun Bureaucrats’ House, Magbon, Abeokuta.
Mr. Onasanya said government was committed to the needs of the workers through the demands of the organised labour unions, towards promoting a mutually beneficial relationship built on the principles of dialogue, understanding and collaboration.
While acknowledging that their contributions to the development and advancement of the Public Service are invaluable, the Head of Service noted that the combined efforts of all the labour leaders had been instrumental in advocating for the improvement of workers.
He urged them to continue to support policies, programme and projects of the government, as they were designed with the ultimate goal of enhancing the peoples welfare and securing a brighter future for all.
“Revered comrades, as we continue the journey of “Building Our Future Together” under the leadership of Governor Dapo Abiodun, your continued support and collaboration remain absolutely crucial to the successful implementation of this transformative agenda. The progress and prosperity of our state depend on the collective efforts of all stakeholders. As key partners in this journey, your cooperation, understanding and active participation are indispensable”, the HoS said.
In their separate goodwill messages, Chairman, Trade Union Congress (TUC), Ogun State, Comrade Akeem Lasisi and his counterpart from the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Comrade Ademola Hameed-Benco, congratulated the leadership of the Association for demonstrating clear vision and capability in running the affairs in the last four years, especially for their steadfast dedication to the cause of the workers, affirming that the tenure witnessed peaceful and rancour-free atmosphere.
They appreciated the governor for the payment of the new minimum wage to the state workers, saying the move had made the state Civil Service stand out among its peers in the country.
Earlier, Chairman, (ASCSN), Comrade Isa Olude, appreciated the governor for being worker-friendly with provision of numerous welfare packages, which include, prompt payment of salaries and allowances, regular release of promotion to deserving officers, payment of outstanding cooperative deductions, peculiar allowance and the implementation of the new national minimum wage in line with the Federal Government template, for the workers.
Present at the conference were the Permanent Secretary, Bureau of Establishments and Training, Mrs. Lydia Fajounbo, labour leaders from the national and state branches of the Association, among others.
Omolara Osindele,
Press Officer, Office of the Head of Service.
COMMISSIONER ADVISES YOUTHS TO LOOK OUT FOR ROLE MODELS
Youths have been advised to look out for role models of integrity that would add immense value to their lives and inspire them to greater heights.
Ogun State Commissioner for Sports Development, Hon. Wasiu Isiaka, stated this while delivering an address at a youth re-orientation programme for secondary school students, tagged: ‘’Next Generation Project’’, at the June 12 Cultural Centre, Kuto, Abeokuta.
Hon. Isiaka, said the Prince Dapo Abiodun-led administration focuses on spotlighting positive role models and addressing the myriad of challenges facing the youth in the state, noting that it was imperative to prioritise long-term gains over immediate gratification in their plans and actions.
He stated that the government had designed various policies, programmes and activities for youths, with support for voluntary organisations such as National Youth Council of Nigeria, to enable them utilise their youthful energies, strength and time productively.
"We are conscious of your burning energies, population strength, natural restiveness and budding talents at the same time. It is pertinent also to note that naturally, youthful exuberance is always high at this age, but I implore you not to make decisions that would affect your life negatively for the rest of life", he said.
While lauding the organisers for bringing the programme to the state, Hon. Isiaka affirmed that Ogun is blessed with agile, willing and intelligent young leaders that had reciprocated government gestures.
Ayobami Disu & Dupe Odeniyi,
Press Officers, Ministry of Sports Development
OPIC PLANS TO LAUNCH 100 HECTARES HOUSING ESTATES IN 2025
Towards ensuring availability of quality houses for subscribers, Ogun State Property and Investment Corporation (OPIC), is planning to launch 100 hectares of land for residential estates at Sagamu axis and other parts of the state for housing projects in year 2025.
The Special Adviser and Managing Director, OPIC, Arc. Fari- Arole, dropped the hint at the Treasury Board meeting on the year 2025- 2027 Medium Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF) and 2025 Budget, at the Obas’ Complex Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta.
Arc. Fari- Arole, represented by the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on OPIC, Prince Farooq Adenugba, stated that construction of the estates would address the challenge of housing deficit, boost the state’s economy and provide safe homes for the people.
The Governor’s aide said despite the high cost of building materials, the Corporation had continued to deliver quality housing projects, such as the Kings Court Phase II, which consists of 42 units apartment and 12 units semi-detached duplex located along Presidential Boulevard, Oke-Mosan and BOFT Apartment, Warewa, comprising of three blocks of 18 units along Lagos-Ibadan Expressway.
He added that President Muhammadu Buhari (PMB) estate, located along Kopabe road, was a Public-Private-Partnership (PPP) initiative between the state government and developers, assuring that the first phase of the project comprised of 115 units, would be completed soon.
Arc. Fari-Arole said the Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) of the agency, which were sourced through survey plans, tender fees, title transfers, administration charges, among others, would be improved upon to surpass the outgoing year.
Olabisi Adegbite,
Press Officer, OPIC
OGUN DISBURSES N2.64 BN GRATUITY TO LG RETIREES, INCREASES MONTHLY PENSIONS
In demonstration of its unwavering concern for the welfare of senior citizens, Ogun State Government, through the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, has disbursed N2.6bn gratuity to retired Public Primary School Teachers and Local Government retirees for the 4th quarter, 2024.
Permanent Secretary, Bureau of Local Government Pensions, Engr. Olufisan Osiyale, revealed this in his Office at Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta, saying the gesture was borne out of Governor Dapo Abiodun's love and passion for the senior citizens, in order to adequately catered for them in the face of the prevailing economic situation.
"I must say that we are fortunate to have Governor Dapo Abiodun, whose interest for the welfare of people is unprecedented. He is of the opinion that those who have served diligently, during their active years, should be adequately taken care of in their old age. This is the motive behind the disbursement of the N2.64bn gratuity to both retired Local Government staff and Public Primary School Teachers," he said.
Osiyale enjoined the beneficiaries to take advantage of the gesture by staying healthy and keeping a moderate lifestyle, adding that their support and prayers would serve as a measure of appreciation for the hand of fellowship extended to them by the Governor.
Speaking on behalf of other beneficiaries, Mr. Samuel Megbowon and Mrs. Caroline Odugbesan, while commending Governor Abiodun for the regular payment of their monthly pensions and gratuities, solicited for the continuous release of funds.
In a related development, the state government has increased the monthly pensions of Local Government retirees and retired Primary School Teachers by N20,000, with effect from October 2024, to alleviate the economic hardship being experienced in the country.
Permanent Secretary in the Bureau, Engr. Osiyale, made this known, while fielding questions from newsmen in Abeokuta, noting that the present administration was passionate about the welfare of the senior citizens whom, he said, deserved the best.
‘’The increment in the payment of monthly pensions to our retirees is a sign of Prince Dapo Abiodun’s initiative at ensuring that the pensioners benefit from the new minimum wage", Osiyale said.
In her submission, State Chairperson, Retired Primary School Teachers Association of Nigeria (REPSTAN), Mrs. Caroline Oguntola, commended Governor Abiodun for the increase in their monthly pensions and payment of gratuities, as well as the sale of Federal and State Government subsidised rice to the retirees, imploring him to continue his good works.
Azeezat Sadiku,
Press Officer, Bureau of Local Government Pensions.
ABIODUN PAYS TRIBUTE TO LATE AIDE, HON. EGUNJOBI Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has described his late aide, Hon.Tajudeen Egunjobi, as a trustworthy and a supportive politician, who contributed his quota towards the development of the state, particularly the housing sector . Hon. Egunjobi, until his death, was the Special Adviser to the Governor on Housing. The Governor, who made this known in his address at the eight days Fidau Prayer, organised by the Ministry of Housing, at the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library Marquee, said the entire state had lost a truthful and respected politician. Abiodun, represented by his deputy, Engr. Noimot Salako-Oyedele, said ‘’as a government, we are going to miss him, his advice, diligence, commitment and hard work. Throughout his tenure, he served with honour and integrity. He was always putting the interest and needs of others at heart. "The deceased was people's advocate, always positive, he does not believe in bringing others down and is passionate on the issue that would bring development to the state and his communities", he said. He urged the people to take a clue from the good legacies and exemplary life late Egunjobi lived, praying to God to continue to guide his families and grant them the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss. In his remarks, Commissioner for Housing, Jagunmolu Akande Omoniyi, described the deceased as a true friend and brother, saying he lived a good life worthy of emulation and contributed immensely to the success of the Ministry since his appointment. Speaking, Son of the deceased, Mr. Farouk Egunjobi, appreciated the Governor, Commissioner, management and staff of the Ministry of Housing, families, friends, business associates and sympathisers, for identifying with the Egunjobi's family. Highlights of the programme was reading from the Holy Quran and special prayers for the deceased family.
Taylor Temitayo, Press Officer, Office of the Deputy Governor.
EDUCATION COMMISSIONER EMPHASISES ON OGUNTEACh INITIATIVE Ogun State Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Prof. Abayomi Arigbabu, says qualified and proficient teachers must be in place, in order to provide an accessible and qualitative education for the citizenry, hence, the Ogun State Teaching Acquisition Channel OGUNTEACh initiative. Prof. Arigbabu said this, while playing host to the Executive members of Teach for Nigeria (TFN) in Abeokuta, stating that efficiency, capacity building of teachers and regular monitoring of their activities would bring about visible improvement and desirable result on learners. Prof. Arigbabu expressed satisfaction with TFN programmes and objectives which focuses on ensuring that every child have access to qualitative and standard education, saying it was in tandem with the Prince Dapo Abiodun-led administration's vision for the education sector. ‘’The successful interns, despite obtaining the required grade from their respective institutions, the channel is designed to remind them what they have learnt but probably have forgotten, they are closely monitored and ensured they meet up with all requirements through OGUNTEACh for a period of two years, Thereafter, they would be appointed as permanent teachers’’, Arigbabu said. Speaking, Chief Executive Officer, TFN, Mrs. Molade Adeniyi, appreciated the Ministry for the partnership, and provision of enabling environment to ascertain the organisation objectives, pledging their continuous loyalty and collaboration towards taking teaching and learning in the state to a higher pedestal. In another development, Prof. Arigbabu, while receiving the contingents who represented Ogun State at the just concluded Nationwide Inter-Secondary E-Debate Competition at Benue State, commended the students for emerging with second position out of 21 States who contested, saying they had made the state proud. On her part, Chief Coach of the contingents, Mrs. Temidayo Omolade, said the Senior Secondary 3 students from Abeokuta Grammar School, Senior, Oluwapamilerinayo Adebajo, as well as Success Oloyede and Micheal Adeyemi both from Baptist Boys High School, Senior performed excellently well during the competition despite the short notification.
Samuel Ogungbesan, Press Officer, MOES&T. |
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